SlemishAbout Slemish
Slemish is a distinctive volcanic plug rising above the surrounding plain in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, and is a well-known local landmark. The hill is traditionally associated with St. Patrick and is a frequent destination for short walks and local pilgrimages.
The usual visitor experience is a steep but well-defined footpath to the summit, which provides broad views across the Antrim countryside and, on clear days, toward the north coast. The route is a relatively short, strenuous hike rather than a long mountain walk.
Geologically the hill is the remnant of ancient volcanic activity and over time has remained as a solitary, conical feature in the landscape. It has cultural associations through its link to St. Patrick that have shaped local use and commemorations.
Slemish stands northeast of Ballymena in County Antrim, rising clearly above surrounding farmland and visible from a wide area of mid-Antrim.
- Geology and walk: The hill is a distinctive volcanic plug and a prominent landmark in County Antrim with a popular steep walking route to the top.
What to See#
- Summit route: The summit cone reached by a steep, waymarked footpath that is the usual objective for walkers and pilgrims.
- Lower slopes and trailheads: Lower slopes and agricultural land encircling the hill, where parking and the main trailheads are located and views open toward the Antrim coast on clear days.
Best Time to Visit Slemish
Best in late spring through early autumn for walking; avoid boggy conditions after heavy rain.
Weather & Climate near Slemish
Slemish's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 18°C. Abundant rainfall (1127 mm/year), wettest in January.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 1° - 6° | -1° | 121 mm | overcast | 91% | 6.3 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.7h |
| February | Poor | 1° - 7° | -1° | 88 mm | overcast | 90% | 6.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.5h |
| March | Poor | 2° - 8° | 1° | 98 mm | overcast | 88% | 6.0 m/s | 0.3 low | 11.7h |
| April | Acceptable | 3° - 11° | 4° | 70 mm | overcast | 86% | 5.1 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 13.9h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 14° | 7° | 63 mm | overcast | 84% | 4.8 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 15.8h |
| June | Good | 8° - 16° | 12° | 66 mm | overcast | 85% | 4.4 m/s | 1.2 high | 16.9h |
| July | Good | 11° - 18° | 14° | 76 mm | overcast | 86% | 4.3 m/s | 1.1 high | 16.4h |
| August | Good | 10° - 18° | 14° | 91 mm | overcast | 87% | 4.3 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 14.7h |
| September | Acceptable | 9° - 15° | 12° | 101 mm | overcast | 87% | 4.8 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 12.5h |
| October | Acceptable | 6° - 12° | 6° | 119 mm | overcast | 89% | 5.6 m/s | 0.2 low | 10.3h |
| November | Poor | 3° - 9° | 2° | 118 mm | overcast | 90% | 5.7 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.3h |
| December | Poor | 2° - 7° | 4° | 116 mm | overcast | 91% | 5.9 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.1h |
How to Get to Slemish
Slemish is about 10 km north of Ballymena in County Antrim. From Ballymena town centre, drive or take local taxis toward the Slemish road (B94 area); there is a small car park at the trailhead with an approach path to the climb.
Tips for Visiting Slemish
- Start early to avoid warm afternoon mist and to have the summit to oneself for sunrise views.
- Wear waterproof boots-the trail can be boggy in places, especially after rain.